Introducing Sara Jones … one of our newest NSW/ACT Committee Members

Each eNews, we introduce you to one of our wonderful Chapter Members, through a Question & Answer type interview article. 

Therefore, in the hotseat this edition, is Sara Jones, Head of Foundation, Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy College

When and where did your career in education begin?
I would have to say straight after school, I went to Sydney University and completed a Bachelor of Education where I qualified to be a high school mathematics teacher. Whilst I spent the next 15 years in the banking and investment finance industry, I returned to education at a point for personal growth and completed a Graduate Diploma in Women’s Studies at Macquarie University. This is when I realised my love for the humanities and I then decided to move into the education sector as career, but with a business focus.

What interests you most in terms of your role?
I am interested in the diversity within my role. As Head of Foundation, I am required to know something about everything and this makes it interesting but, admittedly, also very challenging. I have so many areas I need to think about and develop skills for and this keeps my role fascinating. I need to be across strategic planning, relationship management, networking, data analysis, writing and communications, administration, stewardship, risk and ethics, societal change and social causes. I am by no means good at all these things, but I enjoy aspiring to be.

What do you find the most rewarding part of your job?
Philanthropy must add value and improve on what we do and this appeals to me most. Philanthropists need innovative ways to invest their wealth and my role is to show how their convictions align with our capabilities to together build a progressive and productive society. This is rewarding, however, it is also complex. In my job, I also love the conversations I have with the many donors in our community who give regularly, and who wish to invest in our school to see it grow positively with purpose. These are often our Alumni members and they share beautiful stories of the past and present which I enjoy listening to and hearing of their lives and learning more about our school.

The popularity of Fundraising as a profession continues to grow and the nature of fundraising is changing. With Fundraising education at tertiary level still very much in its infancy, it is difficult to obtain the skills required to facilitate societal progress through philanthropy. Recently, I completed a Graduate Certificate in Business at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and the course taught foundational knowledge, research and skills appropriate to the philanthropic and non-profit profession. I highly recommend this course, as it was extremely worthwhile and interestingly, the most valuable aspect for me was its focus on respect for donors, being an authentic person and the importance of trust.    

Who is your biggest role model in terms of philanthropic leadership?
There are so many people I admire in terms of their outstanding leadership in the sector, I don’t think I could nominate a biggest role model. My lecturer at QUT, Dr Wendy Scaife, is one leader who is often prominent in my mind as she opened up the concept of beauty in philanthropy. Also, she showcased a series of outstanding interviews with leaders in the field and her manner in facilitating these was gracious.

I receive incredible inspiration from Jim Langley, a thought leader and coach on adapting to the changing philanthropic reality. I follow Jim on LinkedIn, and whilst he is not Australian (American), I highly recommend that members of EducatePlus who are in the fundraising space follow him. He encourages always to take a step back and to think purposefully, gracefully and respectfully.  

What aspect of your role do you love the most?
In some ways I love the uncertainty. Having pre-set ideas for a meeting with a prospective donor does not serve well. I try to stay open but remain grounded in purpose. I love the way encounters and conversations will often take a completely different direction than anticipated and whilst this creates challenge, it really is the magnificence of working in the philanthropic space. I don’t feel self-assured and I have much to learn, however, I think this is what I love too. I enjoy moving in the next direction that my interactions take me. I also love and acknowledge the support of skilful consultants in the field of fundraising, and EducatePlus partner with amazing professionals that I do consult with. I have learnt that giving can really come from a profound and complex place, this helps me to develop as a person.

What are you currently doing that would interest other members in Educate Plus?
I am currently writing a Strategic Plan and working with our Executive, College Board, Foundation Committee and professional consultants, Global Philanthropic, to develop strategies and tactics for philanthropic growth. This work is interesting as it provides the opportunity to learn more about our school and it is through different people’s perspectives that learning takes place. Also, working with volunteers such as committee and board members are reminders of the passion of people to make a difference and of those who care.

For anyone embarking on a role in Advancement what advice would you give them?
Broaden your skills and advance yourself through education. Embrace your membership with EducatePlus to receive professional guidance, forward-thinking advice and valuable networking opportunities. Be patient, be open, be prepared to be taught something new each day.  These things matter.

Thank you Sara Jones! It’s been wonderful getting to know you!